Tokyo Travel Guide
Tokyo is a mesmerising megacity where ancient shrines and hyper-modern districts coexist in seamless harmony. From the frenetic scramble of Shibuya to the hushed temple gardens of Asakusa, Japan's capital rewards endless exploration. It is a place of impeccable order, world-class cuisine, and pockets of profound calm hidden among the neon.
Tokyo β Highlights in photos
Top things to do
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo's oldest temple, in Asakusa, is approached through the towering Kaminarimon gate and a lively shopping street of traditional snacks. The five-story pagoda and incense-filled courtyard are stunning at any hour. Visit early morning to enjoy it before the crowds arrive.
Shibuya Crossing
Experience the world's busiest pedestrian scramble, where thousands cross at once beneath towering video screens. The view from the Shibuya Sky observation deck or a nearby cafe is spectacular. Come at dusk when the neon and crowds are at their peak.
Meiji Shrine
A serene forested shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, tucked beside busy Harajuku yet worlds away in atmosphere. Walk the gravel path beneath towering torii gates and sake barrel offerings. Entry is free; go on a weekend morning for a chance to glimpse a traditional wedding.
Tsukiji Outer Market
Though the wholesale auctions moved to Toyosu, the outer market still teems with stalls selling fresh sushi, grilled seafood, and kitchen knives. Come hungry and graze your way through breakfast. Arrive before 9am for the freshest picks and shortest lines.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
A vast landscaped park blending Japanese, English, and French garden styles, glorious during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons. Entry is around 500 yen. It is an ideal spot for a picnic and a break from the city bustle.
teamLab Planets
Wade through an immersive digital art installation of water, light, and mirrored infinity rooms in Toyosu. Tickets are around 3,800 yen and must be booked online for a timed slot. Wear shorts or rolled-up trousers as you walk barefoot through knee-deep water.
Museums & entry info
Tokyo National Museum
Japan's oldest and largest museum, in Ueno Park, holds the world's finest collection of samurai swords, ceramics, and Buddhist art. General admission is around 1,000 yen. Check official hours, as it closes on Mondays.
Ghibli Museum
A whimsical shrine to the beloved animation studio in Mitaka, full of hand-drawn art, a mini theatre, and a rooftop robot. Tickets are around 1,000 yen and must be reserved well in advance, as they sell out monthly. Confirm the strict entry-time policy online.
Mori Art Museum
A leading contemporary art space on the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills, often paired with a city observation deck. Combined tickets run about 2,000 yen. Verify current exhibitions and late-night opening hours before visiting.
Edo-Tokyo Museum
A dramatic recreation of old Edo life with a full-scale replica bridge and period dioramas. Admission is around 600 yen. Note that it has undergone long-term renovation, so check reopening status and hours online.
Signature experiences
Sushi Omakase
Sit at the counter of a specialist sushi bar and let the chef guide you through a seasonal tasting menu. Prices range widely from around 4,000 yen at lunch to well over 20,000 yen at top counters. Reserve ahead and arrive on time, as sittings are precise.
Onsen or Sento Bathing
Soak in a traditional hot-spring or neighbourhood bathhouse for a deeply Japanese moment of relaxation. Entry to a public sento costs around 500 yen. Wash thoroughly before entering the communal bath, and note tattoo policies in advance.
Robot and Themed Cafes
Dive into Tokyo's playful side at a maid cafe, animal cafe, or quirky themed restaurant. Expect a cover charge of around 500 to 1,500 yen plus food and drink. Book popular spots online, especially on weekends.
Golden Gai Bar Hopping
Squeeze into the tiny, atmospheric bars of this Shinjuku alley network, each seating only a handful of guests. Many charge a small cover of a few hundred yen. Look for bars welcoming foreigners and embrace the intimate, smoky charm.
What to eat
Tokyo holds more Michelin stars than any other city, yet its greatest joy is the everyday excellence of ramen counters, izakaya, and department-store food halls. Eating here is a highlight in itself.
Spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October to November) for crisp air and red maples are the most beautiful and comfortable seasons. Avoid the hot, humid rainy season of June and July.
Tokyo's vast metro and JR train network is fast, punctual, and easiest with a rechargeable Suica or Pasmo IC card. Trains stop around midnight, so plan late nights around taxis or the first morning service.
Traveler tips
- Carry some cash, as many small restaurants and shrines do not accept cards.
- Get a Suica or Pasmo card for effortless tap-and-go travel across all transit lines.
- Stay quiet on trains and never talk on the phone β silence is the norm.
- Do not tip; excellent service is standard and tipping can cause confusion.
- Carry a small bag for rubbish, as public bins are rare on the streets.